Seasonal Affective Disorder Less Common That Previously Thought

Peter Dazeley/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- A new study has found that seasonal affective disorder, often blamed for winter blues, is not as common as researchers previously believed. According to HealthDay News, the study, led by David Kerr of the School of Psychological Science at Oregon State University, found that while the disorder does exist, the impact is significantly less than anticipated.

Surveys asking about depression over the years were given to nearly 800 people in an attempt to link responses to changing weather conditions. The research, was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.

The researchers do point out that any person who believes that they suffer from season affective disorder should seek help. Treatment for the disorder can include antidepressants, cognitive behavior therapy and exposure to light, according to HealthDay News.